An Equality, Diversity, Inclusion report revealed only 17% of London audiences identify as a minority.
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Plans for black-only audiences to be introduced into West End theatres have been called “restricting” by Downing Street.
Slave Play, currently running at the Noel Coward Theatre, will show two performances for all-black-identifying audiences.
On two nights in July and September, the theatre will provide a space to allow the black community to watch the play “free from the white gaze”.
The decision comes after the industry faced criticism for lack of diversity in its audiences.
An Equality, Diversity, Inclusion report revealed only 17% of London audiences identify as a minority. CREDIT: ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND
The play write, Jeremy O. Harris, says he is “excited” by the initiative.
He said it was important to “radically invite” them in with initiatives that say “you’re invited. Specifically you.”
The play has caused racial debate
The play, which stars Games of Thrones actor Kit Harrington, has been criticised for this new scheme.
Now, a Downing Street spokesperson has said the Prime Minister “is a big supporter of the arts.” However, shared “restricting audiences on the basis of race is wrong and decisive.”
When the scheme was implemented in New York’s Golden Theatre in 2019, all 809 seats were sold out.
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HeadlineLondon’s black-only theatre performances ‘wrong and decisive’, says Downing Street
Short HeadlineBlack-only theatre performances 'wrong', says Downing Street
StandfirstA Downing Street spokesperson said exclusively black audiences are "concerning".
Plans for black-only audiences to be introduced into West End theatres have been called “restricting” by Downing Street.
Slave Play, currently running at the Noel Coward Theatre, will show two performances for all-black-identifying audiences.
On two nights in July and September, the theatre will provide a space to allow the black community to watch the play “free from the white gaze”.
The decision comes after the industry faced criticism for lack of diversity in its audiences.
An Equality, Diversity, Inclusion report revealed only 17% of London audiences identify as a minority. CREDIT: ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND
The play write, Jeremy O. Harris, says he is “excited” by the initiative.
He said it was important to “radically invite” them in with initiatives that say “you’re invited. Specifically you.”
The play has caused racial debate
The play, which stars Games of Thrones actor Kit Harrington, has been criticised for this new scheme.
Now, a Downing Street spokesperson has said the Prime Minister “is a big supporter of the arts.” However, shared “restricting audiences on the basis of race is wrong and decisive.”
When the scheme was implemented in New York’s Golden Theatre in 2019, all 809 seats were sold out.
